Olivier Courson, the chairman and CEO of StudioCanal, has confirmed talks have begun over making a 'Paddington' sequel

The film's director Paul King has suggested the sequel will be based on one of author Michael Bond's novels.

He told Digital Spy: "We'd love to do another one, there's lots of Paddington books and source material.

"He's a great character to write for and direct so I'd love to do more. I really hope we can make it happen."

Meanwhile, Olivier Courson, the chairman and CEO of StudioCanal, recently revealed talks had already begun with producer David Heyman to work on a follow-up to the 2014 hit film, which starred Nicole Kidman, Hugh Bonneville, Peter Capaldi and Ben Whishaw.

He told Variety: "We have to be selective, work with strong brands, top talent, take the time we need.

"Obviously, the result on Paddington is a strong incentive to us and the partners on the movie to work on a sequel, and a strong incentive for StudioCanal to continue in this area (of ambitious family movies)."

'Paddington' has already earned more than $200 million at the worldwide box office, meaning it has become the highest-grossing family film released by a non-US film studio.

The story of an illegal immigrant from Peru and his efforts to be integrated into British society. He's a bear, by the way. Whishaw imbues the CGI Paddington with immense charm, the rest of the cast are excellent and the exuberant direction and smart, knowing script make for a genuine delight.